High Ground Organics
Contact & location
Watsonville, CA 95076
Where High Ground Organics is located
High Ground Organics sits in Watsonville, California, one of the classic apple-growing pockets of California. The farm's street address is 521 Harkins Slough Rd, Watsonville, CA 95076.
Most visitors reach High Ground Organics by car; the drive winds past rolling farmland that's especially pretty during peak fall color. From the nearest highway exit, follow signs toward Watsonville and continue on local county roads to 521 Harkins Slough Rd. GPS is reliable to the farm entrance, and there is on-site parking once you arrive.
Landmarks in the area include downtown Watsonville, nearby farm stands, and small-town diners that make a great pre or post-picking stop. Cell service can get spotty on back roads, so it's smart to download the map to your phone before you leave the highway.
Open: Year-round
Looking for the best apple picking near Watsonville, California? High Ground Organics is a working apple orchard located in Watsonville, California, welcoming families, couples, and photographers each fall for a classic American harvest experience.
High Ground Organics sits inside one of California's most beloved apple-growing regions. Between the smell of fresh cider, warm apple donuts, and rows of Honeycrisp and McIntosh trees heavy with fruit, it's the kind of place that turns a simple Saturday into a memory your kids will still talk about years later.
Pick-Your-Own Apples at High Ground Organics
Pick-your-own apples at High Ground Organics is exactly what it sounds like, you walk the orchard, pick apples directly off the tree, and pay by the bag or pound when you're done. Staff will point you toward the rows that are ripe that week, hand you a picking bag or bucket, and give you a quick tip on how to twist (not pull) the apple.
Other Crops & Produce
On-Farm Activities
Best Time to Visit
Apple season at High Ground Organics runs from late August through late October, like most orchards in California. The sweet spot for a first-time visit is the last two weeks of September through the first two weeks of October.
Weekends between 9 a.m. and 12 p.m. are the friendliest time to arrive. Weekdays are the most peaceful, a Tuesday or Wednesday morning may have entire rows to yourself.
Good to Know Before You Visit
Verified from the orchard's own website.
What to Bring
- • Cash (backup for the farm stand)
- • Closed-toe walking shoes
- • A light jacket or flannel
- • Sunscreen and a hat
- • Water bottles for the walk
- • Reusable bags for the ride home
- • A camera or phone charged for photos
- • Small bills for cider and donuts
Where High Ground Organics is located
High Ground Organics sits in Watsonville, California, one of the classic apple-growing pockets of California. The farm's street address is 521 Harkins Slough Rd, Watsonville, CA 95076.
Most visitors reach High Ground Organics by car; the drive winds past rolling farmland that's especially pretty during peak fall color. From the nearest highway exit, follow signs toward Watsonville and continue on local county roads to 521 Harkins Slough Rd. GPS is reliable to the farm entrance, and there is on-site parking once you arrive.
Landmarks in the area include downtown Watsonville, nearby farm stands, and small-town diners that make a great pre or post-picking stop. Cell service can get spotty on back roads, so it's smart to download the map to your phone before you leave the highway.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does High Ground Organics offer pick-your-own apples?+
Yes, High Ground Organics offers pick-your-own apples during the harvest season. Guests walk the rows, pick apples straight from the tree, and pay by the bag, bucket, or pound at the farm stand.
When is apple picking season at High Ground Organics?+
Apple season at most U.S. orchards runs from late August through late October. Call ahead or check High Ground Organics's website before your visit to confirm which varieties are ripe.
What are High Ground Organics's hours?+
Hours at High Ground Organics vary by season. We recommend calling ahead at 831-254-4918 or checking their website the morning of your visit.
How much does apple picking cost at High Ground Organics?+
Pick-your-own apple prices in the U.S. typically run $1.50–$3.00 per pound, or $20–$40 for a half-bushel bag. High Ground Organics sets prices at the entrance each season based on the current crop.
What apple varieties can I pick at High Ground Organics?+
High Ground Organics grows several classic apple varieties. Popular picks include Honeycrisp for eating, Cortland for baking, and Granny Smith for pies and cider.
Is High Ground Organics good for kids and families?+
Absolutely, High Ground Organics welcomes families and offers pick-your-own.
Can I bring my dog to High Ground Organics?+
Most working orchards ask that pets stay home for food-safety reasons. Call High Ground Organics to confirm their current pet policy before bringing your dog.
Is there parking at High Ground Organics?+
High Ground Organics has on-site parking that's free for guests. Fall weekends are the busiest, mornings are the calmest time to visit.
What should I bring to High Ground Organics?+
Bring cash, comfortable closed-toe shoes, a light jacket, sunscreen, water, and a camera. High Ground Organics usually provides picking bags or buckets.
Data source: USDA Local Food Portal · Confidence: High
Visitor reviews
Be the first to review High Ground Organics.
More apple orchards in California
See all →
Beaumont, CA
B&R Organic Cherry Orchard
Camino, CA
Apple Hill Growers Association
Julian, CA
Apple Starr Orchard
Placerville, CA
Abel's Apple Acres
Aptos, CA
Silva's Apple Barn
Solvang, CA
Ballard Apple Farm and Seein' Spots Miniature Donkeys
Plan the rest of your apple day
What's ripening these days →
See which varieties are ready to pick right now across California.
Apple varieties guide →
Compare 50+ apples by taste, texture, and best use before you visit.
Recipes for your haul →
Pies, crisps, cider, butter, and more, tested with fresh-picked apples.
U-Pick day checklist →
What to bring, what to ask, and how to pick apples that store well.
More orchards near you →
Find the closest U-Pick farms sorted by distance from your location.
Read the orchard blog →
Seasonal guides, apple news, and tips from growers across the US.